2022 Capitol City Classic Day 2 thoughts

Back to Hamline to take in the full 2nd day of games there in the Capitol City Classic.  A couple of new teams I wanted to cross off my list in person and then a couple of fun night games.

Game #1: White Bear Lake 70 Duluth East 68
No Isaac Nyakundi?  No problem for Duluth East as still have 2 bigs to put in the middle.  Crazy how much size they've had in recent years.  The Greyhounds shoot 15-25 in the 1st half including 11 of 13 from 2.  That gives them a 3 point lead at the break.  In the 2nd half, Jack Janicki shows his most assertive side of the week.  He scores 18 of his 25 in the 2nd half to put the Bears over the top.  Jack Misgen carried the WBL offense in the 1st half with 12 of his 17 points.  Also like what frosh Colin Piper did in the 1st half off of the WBL bench.  Jobe Juenemann with 1 of his 5 triples late to give the Greyhounds 1 last chance that didn't work out.  He finished with 21 points.  Michael Kastelic added 3 triples and 15 points for East.  Rocco Paulson is one of those bigs mentioned for East.  He was solid inside with 10 points on the day.  Both offenses efficient.  Hard to imagine East losing when my shot chart for them is a totally ridiculous solid green.

Game #2: Eagan 68 Mound-Westonka 50
This was the lowest possession game I've done in my year plus of doing Czar Insights.  Only 98 total possessions (50/48 Mound).  But that doesn't mean snoozefest.  Eagan 12-25 from 3 and 26-49 overall with their new Chin Offense.  The high flare 3 is a thing of beauty and while it didn't show today, they slip the post off that screen too.  The lead would be 11 at the half for Eagan. Mound-Westonka came out with 4 straight buckets to start the 2nd half and cut the margin to 42-40 with 15:40 left.  But they only make 2 of their last 16 shots.  That was after a 16-31 shooting start.  They get their last FG with 6:33 left to cut the margin to 52-48.  Eagan closes strong with a 16-2 run to win big.  Oscar Khazon 4 triples and all 16 of his points in the 1st half to lead the Wildcats.  Junior PG Carter Reinbold 12 points is a tough guy that coach Andre Phillips will love having for another year.

Game #3: #7AAAA Farmington 75 Robbinsdale Armstrong 65
These teams trade early runs in a very even first half.  Baiden Bean not on fire from 3 like last night, but hot from midrange with 16 1st half points for Farmington.  Tigers lead 31-29 at the break.  Farmington makes a 2nd half run with Seth Newbern going to the bench with 4 fouls.  Armstrong's own flamethrower Owen Skram with a pair of 3s as the Falcons keep it at a 3 point game when Newbern returns.  But Farmington gets buckets on 5 of the next 6 trips.  Rob Conover 2 drives for hoops and another for a dropoff assist.  Add in a couple Tigers layups beating the press to get the final.  Baiden Bean 16 of his 23 in the 1st half.  Brandon Hrncir 17 of his 19 in the 2nd half for Farmington.  They win points in the paint 42-18 plus 15-5 in 2nd chance points.   Owen Skram 6 triples and 24 points to lead Armstrong.  Seth Newbern adds 16.

Game #4: Minnetonka 77 #5AAA Mahtomedi 68
Minnetonka started 4-19 from the floor in this one.  That was largely because of questionable shot selection.  That allowed Mahtomedi to jump out to a 21-11 lead midway thru the 1st half.  But the Skippers offense is hard to keep down for long and Mahtomedi's defense showed last night that it can have trouble getting stops.  Minnetonka shoots 23-39 the rest of the way.  Ibo El-Amin with a putback to beat the halftime buzzer and then Minnetonka adds the 1st 7 of the 2nd half.  They never give up the lead after that.  Owen Carlson would score 10 of the last 13 Mahtomedi points but Minnetonka was able to close it out.  Ibo El-Amin 16 of his 24 in the 1st half to lead Minnetonka.  3 others in double figures for the Skippers.  Owen Carlson 23 points for Mahtomedi.  Will Underwood adds 17, AJ McCleery with 13.

Czar Insights

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2022 Capitol City Classic Day 1 Thoughts

Rolling along with the holiday season.  My 2nd day was a split day for the Capitol City Classic in St. Paul.  I took in the 1st 2 games at Concordia-St. Paul and then hit Hamline for the final 2 games there.

Game #1: St. Paul Central 65 Anoka 59
Anoka just couldn't get anything to drop in the 1st half with 6-30 FG woes.  But despite that they were only down 5 going to the break.  Anoka soph Trey Borchers with a pair of triples in an early 2nd half run to put Anoka up 3.  He finished with 5 3s and 22 points to lead Anoka.  Too much from guard Allen Lankfard is the story here.  He goes for 22 of his 32 points in the 2nd half for Central.  The Minutemen make 20-22 FTs in the second half to hang on for the win. 

Game #2: Minneapolis South 66 Fridley 54
I was looking forward to seeing what South had after the offseason exodus of their roster.  When I saw them at the CDH jamboree they showed better than expected.  This one was close all the way.  South used an 11-0 run midway thru the 2nd half to take the lead for good. James Underwood a couple big 3s in that run for South.  Junior wing Maurice Hargrow with 12 of his 16 in the 2nd half for South to lead the way.  If that name sounds familiar to locals, it definitely is.  His dad is 2001 Mr Basketball finalist Moe Hargrow who played at Minnesota.  Fridley has 4 of their 5 starters in double figures.

Game #3: #5AAA Mahtomedi 80 #7AAAA Farmington 78
I skipped the final game at Concordia St. Paul to make the tip of this one.  Glad I did as this was one of the better games of the season so far.  Baiden Bean with 5 early 3s for Farmington as they come out blazing.  26-11 Tigers and we're not even midway thru the first half.  Then Farmington turnovers allow Mahtomedi to climb back into the game.  Add in Will Underwood heating up and the Farmington lead is only 3 at the break.  Farmington shoots 19-30 with 8-12 from 3 in the half.  But 11 turnovers were very costly.

The Tigers continue to cling to that lead 59-57 with 10:10 left.  Then its Owen Carlson for 3 the easy way and then the hard way plus another bucket. Will Underwood with a triple as well.  All of a sudden its 70-62 Mahtomedi with 7:20 left and what the heck happened.  Farmington responds with a 12-0 run of their own.  Brandon Hrncir and Cole Wilcek doing work against the smaller Zephyrs lineup during the run.  74-70 Farmington before a triple and bucket from Underwood.  Heavy punches being thrown here.

Nik Domier gave Farmington great bench minutes in the 1st half along with Bean.  After a very quiet 2nd half for both, its Domier with 2 hoops and a Bean bucket.  78-75 Farmington on top with 1:42 left.  They get a stop but miss a front end.  Then its Owen Carlson fouled on a 3 with 53.2 left.  He makes all 3 to tie it.  Farmington misses with under 30 seconds left and Mahtomedi takes time to setup a final play.  AJ McCleery has the ball on the right wing.  He goes to a nice crossover and the defense parts like the Red Sea for an easy layup with 5.5 left.  Farmington has 1 last chance.  They throw ahead and its out of bounds with 0.1 left on the side.  No luck on the lob tip attempt.  Mahtomedi comes from 15 down in the 1st half to win a thriller.  Will Underwood terrific with 5 3s and 31 points.  Owen Carlson adds 19 including the 3 late clutch FTs for Mahtomedi.  Baiden Bean 24 points and 5 3s to lead Farmington.  Nik Domier 17 points off the bench.  32 of their 41 points in the 1st half.  Stat of the night here is Mahtomedi winning points off turnovers 29 to 7.  They took advantage of the 2nd chances and turnovers to prevail despite giving up better than 50% shooting.  The 2nd half defense for both sides was much better than the 1st.

Game #4: Minnetonka 68 White Bear Lake 59
Jack Janicki in the lineup for White Bear Lake after starting the season injured.  Minnetonka's guard depth and speed finally got to the Bears in the 2nd half as Tonka pulled away.  A 18-3 run put the game out of reach.  Jordan and Jalen Cain running wild for easy buckets as they combine for 42 points on the night.  Jack Janicki leads White Bear Lake with 19 points.  White Bear Lake only 5 offensive rebounds and got outscored 48-34 in the paint.  Plus they didn't get to the foul line either.  Size was their advantage in this one and they didn't use it.

Czar Insights

For details on exactly what the value in the chart mean, click here for the full explanation of Czar Insights. 

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2022 TCO Holiday Classic Day 1 Thoughts

The annual holiday week in the gym starts with a trip to Augsburg for day 1 of the TCO Holiday Classic.  A marvelous winter day means we have the grill fired up and burgers at the concession stand.  Along with Pepsi, that will most definitely work.  Lithgow evaluating the early games.  Now to the game action and Czar Insights.

Quarterfinal #1: #5AAAA Hopkins 83 Cambridge-Isanti 54
Since the tournament's inception in 2009, Hopkins has won the title every year from 2010 until now except for a 2016 loss to Minnehaha (and COVID in 2020 of course).  The Royals look on pace to continue that streak.  They blow open an 11 point halftime game by shooting 60% in the 2nd half.  That's despite 8-32 from 3 for the game.  They win points off turnovers 31-11 thanks to 21 Bluejackets turnovers.  That also leads to a 44-18 advantage on points in the paint.  Jayden Moore another outstanding game with 33 points and distributing.  Anthony Smith 19 points with 3 triples.  Kobe Karels 4 triples in the 1st half to help C-I hang around.  He finishes with 20 points to lead the Bluejackets.

Quarterfinal #2: Andover 78 Minneapolis Southwest 58
Fun matchup here with each team featuring a guard who's having a monster year.  Ben Kopetzki with 17 of his 24 points in the 1st half to lead Andover.  Landyn Nelson adds 4 triples and scores all 16 of his points in the 1st half for Andover.  7-17 from 3 for Andover to build a 10 point halftime lead.  Liam Farniok having his own big year for the Lakers.  He has 9 early points in the 2nd half to keep Southwest within 7.  Sam Musungu with a couple of steals for buckets to kill 1 of the Southwest runs.  He scores 15 of his 16 in the 2nd half.  Andover wins despite only shooting 1-15 from 3 in the 2nd half.   They make up for it by winning points off turnovers and 2nd chance points.  A very common theme on this day.  Baraka Tarleton with 4 critical baseline jumpers in the 2nd half for Andover as well.

Quarterfinal #3: Minneapolis Washburn 64 Forest Lake 54
A delightful meeting of AAU teammates with Kyle Jorgensen taking on Owen Waldoch.  Jorgensen was a monster against Hiawatha last week and showed up big again today.  Waldoch didn't disappoint on his side of the matchup either.  He went on a personal 8-0 run to put Forest Lake up 5 early in the 2nd half.  Then in a 1 point game, Jorgensen decided to 1 up him.  A putback, a steal for 2, a triple and a baseline jumper and why not convert a turnover too.  Down the stretch he scores 17 out of 18 Washburn points.  Washburn goes 22-12 on the offensive glass with Jorgensen being a factor there.  But a 21-6 edge on turnover points was huge.  Kyle Jorgensen leads Washburn with 20 of his 29 points in the 2nd half to go with 11 rebounds on my officially unofficial stat sheet.  Owen Waldoch 19 points and 11 rebounds to lead Forest Lake.  Brennan Sauvageau made important shots in the 1st half for Forest Lake. He finished with 14 points and a pair of threes.

Quarterfinal #4: Osseo 66 Richfield 46
On paper this looked like the best matchup of the day.  Richfield would get the 1st basket of the day and then promptly turn it over 9 times before scoring again.  Osseo would go on a 12-0 run thanks to that and never give up that lead.  Richfield would pull to within 23-20 at the 5 minute mark thanks to buckets on 6 out of 7 trips.  But only 2 hoops on their other 28 possessions of the half.  The drought led to a 16-0 run across halftime and allowed Osseo to take a 39-20 lead early in the 2nd half.  Richfield would get no closer than 11 the rest of the way. 15-1 2nd chance points edge for Osseo with 50-28 points in the paint.  Alvin Jones with great bench minutes to lead Osseo with 10 of his 12 points and both of his 3s in the 1st half.  2 others with 10 points and 2 others with points in a very balanced attack for the Orioles.  CJ Armstrong leads Richfield with 17 points.  Jalen Hayes adds 10.

Czar Insights

For details on exactly what the value in the chart mean, click here for the full explanation of Czar Insights. 

Thoughts from The Big Stage 2022

The Big Stage event was held at Osseo High School.  Another long day of games with the headlining #1 vs #2 matchup in class AAAA to finish it off.  Here are some thoughts from those games.

Game 1: #8AAAA Robbinsdale Cooper 63 Champlin Park 58
My how the mighty have fallen.  Champlin Park used to reload every year and now the talent has dropped way off from the high standard they held for many years.  Molley Kamara with good bench minutes in the 1st half before having to sit with 2 fouls.  On the other side, the strong start to the season continues for Michael Cooper.  Another game over 20 points with 22 in this one.  Guard Sam Massaquoi adds 19.  The Hawks would expand a 6 point halftime lead to 15 in the 2nd half.  Champlin Park would come back to take the lead with 2:09 left.  But a couple of Rebels turnovers allow Cooper to score the last 6 points of the game for the win.

Game 2: #10AAAA Hopkins 66 Maple Grove 60
A 14-0 Hopkins run to end the 1st half would give the Royals a 12 point halftime lead.  Maple Grove would cut that lead to 3 with about 10 minutes left but get no closer.  Forward Vince Hillesheim doing great work inside for Hopkins.  He scored 16 of his 23 points in the 1st half.  Star PG Jayden Moore controlled the last 7 minutes.  6 points and a pair of assists for triples from soph wing Daveion Hart put the game away.  Junior guard Henry Stang with 17 of his 21 points in the 2nd half to lead Maple Grove.  He had 10 straight Crimson points in their run that cut the lead.

Game 3: Minnetonka 95 St. Cloud Tech 68
A hot start from junior PG Tameron Ferguson would allow Tech to open an early 6 point lead.  He had 16 of the first 22 Tech points.  But only 1 tough field goal after that.  Tech just couldn't get stops in this one.  Tonka scores on 21 of 24 trips split evenly across halftime.  That allows the Skippers to turn a 4 point deficit into a 31 point lead with about 11 minutes left.  Cruise control from there.  Minnetonka with 4 players in double figures.  Jordan Cain leads with 20 points.  Ibo El-Amin 3 triples and all 17 of his points in the 1st half.  Tameron Ferguson 16 of his 22 points early to lead St. Cloud Tech.

Game 4: #2AAA De La Salle 73 Stillwater 48
Another quality performance from DLS PG Nas Whitlock in this one as he leads the Islanders to the win with 24 points.  A slow start for Max Shikenjanski in the point guard matchup but he leads the Ponies with 22.  No other help for him though.  Jaden Morgan with his best game so far for De La Salle he knocks down 2 first half triples in the run that started to open the game up.  And holy Moses, I have been removed.  I have seen the spectre and I was there too!  Israel Moses with 1 of the nasty dunks of the season to get that run started.  Another solid game for him with 13 points and a couple of 3s.

Game 5: Cretin-Derham Hall 64 #7AAAA Robbinsdale Armstrong 57
We got to see some fired up Jerry Kline and that's always entertaining.  JERRY JERRY JERRY!  CDH hung around and hung around.  Then a late 8-0 run breaks a 45 all tie and puts the Raiders over the top.  Guard Jake Little with great minutes off the CDH bench.  He finishes with 15 points including the last 2 buckets of that critical run.  Seth Newbern 17 points to lead Armstrong

Game 6: #6AAAA Eastview 73 Osseo 55
Great balance and quality defense from Eastview in this one.  The Lightning get 4 in double figures led by Dylan Omweno off the bench with 16.  The front line of Mario Adams, Jon Mekonnen and Chet Kloss all in double digits too.  Trey Smith with 26 points to lead Osseo.  Nobody else got going for Orioles though.

Game 7: #5AAA Benilde-St. Margaret's 82 #9AAAA Andover 78
Andover opening up a 1st half lead, but then a big 2nd half rally by Benilde-St. Margaret's.  Then the Red Knights held off a final rally.  Soph forward Jalen Wilson with 20 of his 30 points in the 1st half.  He bullied his way to a ton of easy inside buckets.  Never had to make an outside shot.  Soph guard Jaleel Donley sparked BSM in the 2nd half with 16 of his 18 points and added 10 assists for the game (per some guy who prefers Coke over Pepsi).  He's super fast with the basketball in his hands.  BSM still has plenty of youthful moments but very entertaining when they have it going.  Ben Kopetzki with 23 of his 33 points in the 2nd half to lead Andover.  Sam Musungu back in the lineup adds 20.

Game 8: #1AAAA Park Center 78 #2AAAA Lakeville North 71
The main event did not disappoint as we got close to a full house for the nightcap.  Lakeville North would open an 11 point first half lead.  Nolan Winter with a quick start to help that.  The Pirates then started to pillage everything in site as they went on a 19-1 run.  As we also saw in their game at De La Salle, when they turn up the defense, it is scary.  This is where Lakeville North's lack of a true point guard showed.  Lakeville North showed their resilience coming back at Wayzata on Tuesday and it showed again here.  A 7-0 run finished by a Jack Robison 3 tied the game with under 6 minutes to play.  Cash Chavis 6 straight points late and took a critical charge that essentially ended the Panthers chances.  Chavis leads the Pirates with 23 points, Chiang Ring 18 and CJ O'Hara adds 15.  Nolan Winter leads Lakeville North with 27 points.  Jack Robison leading the late comeback with 13 of his 18 in the 2nd half.  He was sitting with 2 fouls when Park Center made their big first half run.  A rematch of this game in the state tournament would definitely be something I'd want to see.

Thoughts from the 2022 Tipoff Classic

Always a great day when you have the biggest day of the year.  Even if I did have to pay Ryan James a 12 pack of Coke for Wisconsin losing Paul Bunyan's Axe.  As always I took in the 8 games on the main court, sorry back court.  Here are some sights and sounds.

Game 1: Robbinsdale Cooper 94 Andover 83
Andover coming off a quality win over Lakeville South just 12 hours earlier.  Those effects showed up in the 2nd half as the Huskies just ran out of gas.  Cooper wins  the 2nd half by 14 to overcome being down by 3 at the break.  Credit to the Cooper full court man style for helping to wear Andover down.  No Bo Powell on the bench for Cooper.  What a stretch for Andover's Ben Kopetzki.  He put up a school record 48 in that Friday win and followed up with 40 in this one.  Huskies without football star Sam Musungu as another scoring option.  For Cooper, wing Michael Cooper (not to be confused with the former Lakers star) was outstanding.  His rim attacks led him to 24 points.  Guard Sam Massaquoi with 19 of his 30 points in the second half.

Game 2: Maple Grove 53 Cretin-Derham Hall 37
CDH with 2 freshmen and a sophomore in the rotation.  That will help them in later years.  As to now, this is the least talented team they've had in many many years.  Plus you add in new faces for the standard early season adjustment period and the major struggle showed.  Maple Grove grinds out the win as they have a couple of missing pieces.

Game 3: #2AAA De La Salle 69 #5AAAA Minnetonka 67
Tie game at half at 31.  Andy Stefonowicz with a putback to put Tonka up 63-58 with 2:30 left.  Nas Whitlock wasn't going to be denied.  He goes triple, triple, hoop and harm and D reclaims the lead.  2 Tonka free throws tie it.  Whitlock has it on the final possession.  Tonka runs a 2nd defender at him.  He pulls up from the right elbow, BANG, BALL GAME! Whitlock scores 18 of the last 21 DLS points in the final 7:30.  He finishes with 34 in the win.  Ibo El-Amin 15 of his 20 in the 1st half for Tonka.

Game 4: #9AAAA East Ridge 59 #7AAAA Osseo 52
East Ridge coming off a blowout loss to #2AAAA Lakeville North in their opener.  U of Mary commit Alex Mattes 10 1st half points to lead East Ridge to a 25-21 halftime lead.  They lead would grow to 10 with 3:45 left.  Osseo attempted a late rally but East Ridge made 7 of 8 FTs late to close it out.  5 of the last 6 from frosh PG Cedric Tomes.  He added a couple of 1st half 3s for team high 18 points on the day.  The frosh is currently undersized but if he grows to be his brother's height (Sid played at Air Force), that will be dangerous.  He already has deep sniper range and a great feel.  UMD commit Trey Smith with 20 points to lead Osseo.  He's the only rotation guy back from last year.  But they have a very solid guard line up with Minneapolis South transfer De'Mari Larkins, Ty Swanson and Temson Denado.

Game 5: Hopkins 84 #10AAAA Bloomington Jefferson 76
The highlight matchup of the top frosh in the state, Jayden Moore, against the top junior in the state, Daniel Freitag, did not disappoint.  It was Moore going nuts early with 16 of the 1st 20 Hopkins points.  That put Hopkins up 6 midway thru the 1st half.  Then Freitag came to life scoring 13 of the next 16 Jaguars points.  Hopkins never really put this one away.  Freitag 2 freebies countered by 2 bonus FTs from Moore.  Freitag 2 and the foul to keep the Jags within 2 with 5:40 left.  Jags so undersized and couldn't get critical rebounds.  That allowed Hopkins a couple critical extra chances that made the margin too large.  Freitag ends with 36 points and a couple of 3s in the loss.  But most of his damage was done in the post as he got a favorable matchup with a smaller guard most of the day.  Jayden Moore ends with 32 and that was with 7 missed free throws.  Anthony Smith 2 important late hoops and 2 late FTs helped close it out.  He ended with 23 points.

Game 6: #3AAA Orono 106 #4AA Minnehaha 97
Defensive stops optional in this one.  Plenty of fun performances in this one.  Isaiah Hagen outstanding with 30 points to lead Orono in the win.  Soph Nolan Groves adds 3 triples and 26 points for the Spartans.  Rolyns Aligbe was a beast inside for Minnehaha with 33 points.  Fun work by Orono against the Minnehaha 1-2-2 press.  Reverse the ball and throw it ahead for wing 3s.  Fun full court offense and diamond spacing to start.  Minnehaha rolled the dice with 9+ minutes left when Jerome Williams picked up his 4th foul.  As is luck in those spots, he promptly picked up a charge and was gone with 9:02 left.  Lorenzo Levy tried to pick up the slack in his absence but Orono made the plays to hold on.

Game 7: #6AAAA Eastview 81 #4AAAA Wayzata 75
The high profile juniors in this one did not disappoint.  Wayzata's Jackson McAndrew 3 1st half triples.  He ends with 5 of them and 21 points.  Eastview's Jon Mekkonen 21 points as well.  His shot continues to develop.  He's an interesting tweener at the forward spot.  Great minutes from forward Mario Adams allowed Eastview to take control in the 1st half.  Wayzata went to an early foul strategy with 2 minutes left and it almost worked.  Eastview got a little rattled and a couple of Isaiah Habte triples allowed Wayzata to get back within 1 possession with 1:08 left.  But 8 of 10 FTs and a Wayzata turnover allow Eastview to close it out.  Another nice game for Hayden Tibbits for Wayzata.  The Trojans playing again without Myles Barnette which is a major piece out of their lineup.

Game 8: #2AAAA Lakeville North 68 #1AAA Totino-Grace 65
Nolan Winter with 3 triples and 11 points to help Lakeville North jump out to a 1st half lead.  8 point Lakeville North lead at half.  Taison Chatman comes out of the game 1 min into the 2nd half.  TG not phased as they rally to tie the game at 50 with 9 minutes left on Isaiah Johnson's 2nd hoop of the half.  Patrick Bath with a quality night inside for TG.  He finishes a pretty pick and roll and TG takes a 56-54 lead with 6:50 left.  2 Lakeville North turnovers.  Those result in a layup on the 1st and an intentional foul on the 2nd.  13-4 TG run for a 63-56 lead with 4 minutes left.  TG only converts 1 of the intentional foul free throws and gets nothing on the possession.  Panthers rally behind a Hudson Vaith triple and then his layup puts the Panthers up 66-65 with 26 seconds left  TG miss and a tough call on a blocked shot gives Lakeville North 2 final free throws  Nolan Winter 16 of his 18 points in the 1st half, but very quiet in the 2nd half.  Hudson Vaith came up big late and finished with 17 points.  I see lots of similarity between him and Isaiah Hagen of Orono (see above).  Both worth keeping a serious eye on.  Jack Robison adds 11.  Patrick Bath with 18 points to lead Totino-Grace.  He was scoring inside and had a great blocked shot sequence on the defensive end.  Isaiah Johnson adds 12.  

Czar's Tip Off Classic All-Star Team
Jayden Moore - Hopkins
Nasir Whitlock - De La Salle
Isaiah Hagen - Orono
Rolyns Aligbe - Minnehaha
Patrick Bath - Totino-Grace

Czar's Tip Off Classic Breakout Team
Michael Cooper - Robbinsdale Cooper
Sam Massaquoi - Robbinsdale Cooper
Mario Adams - Eastview
Nolan Groves - Orono
Anthony Smith - Hopkins

Cashing in on an island return

Prologue
A huge non-conference battle as #2AAA De La Salle hosts #1AAAA Park Center on the island.  Its a return bout from a super intense game last season.  Its also the return of Cash Chavis to DLS after transferring late last season.  Not a super packed crowd since its a weeknight game.  DLS breaking out Chick-Fil-A at the concession stand.  I'm all over that.  YUM!  Got to sit by TWolves guy Matt Bare.  Always great to see him and support the games he puts on at Target Center.

Game Time
Aidan Higgins for 3 and D jumps out to a 5-1 lead.  Then PC goes on a 9-0 run and never looks back.  Nas Whitlock 2nd foul midway thru the half sits him down.  But he comes back in for D and scores 7 in a row to keep the Islanders within 36-31 at 3:30 after they were down by 13.  PC blows it open with a 16-2 run to end the half.  Cash Chavis half of those.  52-33 Pirates at the break.  A long half with 33 FT attempts as both teams racked up the fouls.

DLS with a couple of threes to start the 2nd half but Chavis will stop the momentum with a bomb after an offensive board.  Whitlock with 4 free throws around a Israel Moses triple.  70-56 PC still leading with 11 minutes left.  Chavis 2 more buckets.  Kaden Cook 2 putbacks.  The lead is 88-69 with 2:47 left.  PC pours it on as JJ Ware hits a triple for the century mark.  PC rolls 102-71 though it wasn't quite that bad.

Post Game
De La Salle falls to 0-1 on the season.  Hard to imagine a De La Salle team giving up 102 anywhere but especially at home.  Doesn't get any easier as they have the high powered Minnetonka offense next in the tipoff classic.  Nas Whitlock with 27 points to lead the Islanders.  12 of those at the charity stripe and 1 triple.  PC used multiple guys to harass him.  Plus they'd jump him with a 2nd guy in the backcourt.  Israel Moses with a breakout game.  4 triples and 18 points for him.  But no other firepower for the Islanders.

Park Center with another blowout win to improve to 2-0.  They'll open NW Suburban play at home against Anoka and Coon Rapids next week.  Then they close out the week with the huge game vs #2 Lakeville North at Osseo on Sat Dec 17th.  Cash Chavis goes nuts in his return to De La Salle with 35 points to lead all scorers.  Much of that off the pressure defense for easy buckets.  CJ O'Hara adds 20.  JJ Ware with 17, Jackson Fowlkes with 11.  Also need to mention the great workman effort of Kaden Cook off the bench.  8 points but did all the grunt work asked of him.  O'Hara and Chavis were just a couple of the guys PC used to hound Whitlock on the defensive end.  That ball pressure really disrupted the Islanders offense that really doesn't have many options.

Czar Insights

For details on exactly what the value in the chart mean, click here for the full explanation of Czar Insights. 

Park Center is bigger, stronger, deeper, more athletic and all of that shows in the numbers.  Park Center beat up De La Salle 29-9 on the offense glass for a 30-5 edge in 2nd chance points.  Add in 23 DLS turnovers that PC turned into 34 points.  PC gets 24 more shots out of that.  The bench goes 20-7 thanks to quality minutes from Kaden Cook and Jackson Fowlkes.

 

A wild 2022 opening night

Prologue
Its opening night of the 2022 season.  No better place to be than in the gym.  I ventured out to Twin Cities Academy for their east side non-conference showdown against Hill-Murray.  Cornell Pillow making his head coaching debut for Twin Cities Academy with his entire staff decked out.  Even had his freshman coach in a bowtie.  Super slick.  Its a super tight and cramped setup at TCA and no concessions.  But that's the beauty of being in the gym.  TCA rebuilding with a boatload of youth after the graduation of the McNeal twins.  Hill-Murray with only 3 seniors as they continue their rebuild.

Game Time
Fouls quickly mount in this one.  After the 1st 8 or 9 minutes go quickly the rest of the half was like walking in quicksand.  Fouls and free throws and turnovers and no flow.  Hill-Murray would open a 15-10 lead before TCA wiped that away with a 9-0 run.  The Pioneers going about 5 minutes scoreless during that stretch.  But they pull back to even and we go to the break tied at 27.  27 fouls and 27 turnovers in the half.

The second half picks up though with Hill-Murray making a quick spurt out of the gate.  TCA PG Jamal Randle with a 3 triple and 3 free throws being fouled on another.  We're even at 40 with 13 minutes left.  Pioneers on another spurt with their leader Xavier Daniels going hoop and harm for a 5 point Hill-Murray lead as we go under 9 minutes left.

The home Tigers go on their big run of the night.  Frosh Jacob Stiele had to sit with 3 fouls in the 1st half.  He finishes off a stretch of scoring 10 straight for TCA with a short baseline jumper and a straight away bomb to tie the game.  Then forward Giovanni Alonso with 2 triples of his own.  That's all part of a 17-4 TCA run.  That puts the Tigers up 64-56 with 3:38 left and Hill-Murray needs time.

3 straight turnovers for TCA and 3 free throws from Daniels as Hill-Murray tries to rally.  Randle makes 4 straight free throws for TCA and they lead by 6 with 55 seconds left.  Then the craziness begins.  Pioneer putback and TCA misses 2 free throws.  Then we have a foul on a 3 point attempt with 23.7 left.  With a chance to cut the lead to 1, the 1st 2 FTs are no good.  Then a TCA sub steps on the floor before the 3rd FT.  Its a technical foul for too many men.  Oh my!  The 3rd of the 3 FTs is no good but the 2 technicals are made.  Not to mention Hill-Murray gets the ball back down 2.  But they turn it over.  TCA makes 1 of 2 free throws.  Time out Hill-Murray with 16.4 left.  Its Zach Frey with the left corner 3 off the drive and kick.  1 last chance for TCA with 7.5 left.  They go high ball screen and its called illegal with 3.1 left.  Hill-Murray misses a heave and we'll play free opening night basketball tied at 71.  7-1 Hill-Murray run in the last 55 seconds for force the OT.

The first OT is a snooze fest with only 1 bucket.  That bucket was from Hill-Murray.  TCA would hold for 1 and not score.  So that means more free basketball.  HOORAY!

Andrew Emelife converts 2 dumpoffs for layups to start the overtime.  That helps TCA jump out to a 5 point lead as Stiele adds a right corner 3.  Hill-Murray ties it on a Frey layup with 1:05 left.  TCA again tries to hold for last shot.  Its Alonso off the bounce and his right wing fadeaway is no good.  Daniels has the rebound for Hill-Murray and he gets fouled with 8.1 left.  Daniels makes the 1st misses the 2nd.  TCA can't get a shot off.  Hill-Murray steals one in a double overtime thriller 81-80.

Post Game
Twin Cities Academy falls to 0-1 on the season.  They play Saturday at noon at Harding.  Junior forward Giovanni Alonso is much improved.  He knocked down 4 3s and topped the Tigers in scoring with 24 points.  Frosh Jacob Stiele with 3 triples and 20 points.  Soph PG Jamal Randle added 17 points.  The Tigers play a fun dribble drive style and they'll let Alonso work off the bounce.  6'8 8th grader Mustafa Mohamed sees rotation time for a group that has 5 underclassmen and only 1 senior.

Hill-Murray starts 1-0 for the season.  Power wing Xavier Daniels bullied his way to a game high 26 points.  Soph guard Joe McGurran added 21 points.  Always fun to see the old Johnny Orr, Al McGuire 2-3 high offense in action.  Brad Underwood and Dana Altman most known for it in today's game.  The Pioneers came out in 2-3 zone to start the 2nd half and it was effective.  Was a little surprised they didn't get back to it down the stretch or in the overtimes.  They host St. Paul Academy in their next game on Tuesday. 

Czar Insights

For details on exactly what the value in the chart mean, click here for the full explanation of Czar Insights.  

It wasn't pretty but it was entertaining.  At least 56 fouls.  Teams combine for 40-81 from the free throw line.  49 turnovers plus cold shooting.  Hill-Murray 5-24 from deep but hammered the offensive glass for 30 offensive boards.  Granted both teams numbers on the offensive board are inflated by the huge number of missed free throws.  20 extra FG attempts lead to 4 more makes.  But this one never should have gone to overtime.  Between missed free throws, turnovers and the late technical, this is a game TCA will want to learn from as its one they should have closed out without overtime.

2022-23 Season In A Nutshell

The Czar's 2022-2023 Season Preview series concludes with the traditional Season In A Nutshell preview.  This is a higher level season overview for casual fans who don't eat, sleep and breathe hoops.  Its who and what you need to see and when and where to see it.  If you missed any of the 14 conferences or 125 teams covered in the previews, a full list of them can be found here.

New Coaches

• Apple Valley - David Collier
• Breck - Harry Sonie
• Burnsville - Erik Leafblad
• Chaska - Nick Hayes
• De La Salle - Todd Anderson
• Edina - Jon Bryant
• Holy Family - Joe Burger
• Kaleidoscope - Randy Schauer
• Maranatha - Ervin Bryant
• Minneapolis North - Ricky Davis
• Minneapolis Washburn - Myles Shepherd
• Park of Cottage Grove - TBD
• Providence - Jake Wachholz
• Rogers - Josh Turnquist
• St. Anthony - Josh Pratt
• St. Michael-Albertville - Jeff Oseth
• St. Paul Harding -TBD
• St. Paul Humboldt - Sam Esboldt
• South St. Paul - Darren Edwards
• Spectrum - Tom Terhaar
• Spring Lake Park - Oliver Major
• Twin Cities Academy - Cornell Pillow

10 Notable Local Events

• Breakdown Tipoff Classic - Dec 10th (Hopkins)
• Southside Showcase - Dec 10th (Benilde-St. Margaret's)
• Breakdown Big Stage - Dec 17th (Osseo)
  
• Hutton Winter Classic - Dec 20th/21st (Hamline)
• East Ridge Holiday Classic - Dec 28th/29th
  
• Breakdown Capitol City Classic - Dec 29th/30th (Hamline and Concordia-St. Paul)
  
• Hall of Fame Winter Classic - Jan 14th (Anoka-Ramsey)
• Southside Super Showcase - Jan 14th (Minnehaha)
  
• Border Battle - Jan 21st (Prescott, WI)
• Community Clash - Jan 28th (West Metro locations)

10 Non-Conference Games to Watch (single game events only)

• East Ridge at Lakeville North - Dec 6th
  
• Park Center at De La Salle - Dec 8th
• Lakeville North at Wayzata - Dec 13th 
• Mahtomedi at Stillwater - Dec 20th
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at De La Salle - Dec 20th
  
• Holy Family at Park Center - Dec 21st
• Eden Prairie at East Ridge - Dec 22nd
  
• East Ridge at Wayzata - Jan 31st 
• White Bear Lake at Wayzata - Feb 23rd
  
• De La Salle at Wayzata - Feb 28th
  

10 Conference Games to Watch

• West Lutheran at Legacy - Dec 12th
  
• White Bear Lake at Stillwater - Dec 16th
• East Ridge at White Bear Lake - Jan 3rd
  
• Eastview at Lakeville North - Jan 10th
  
• Totino-Grace at Park Center - Jan 12th
• Orono at Bloomington Jefferson - Jan 27th
  
• Stillwater at White Bear Lake - Feb 2nd
• New Life at Maranatha - Feb 3rd
  
• Park Center at Totino-Grace- Feb 9th
• Lakeville North at Eastview - Feb 14th
  

10 Impact Transfers

• Kole Hanson - Edina to Holy Family
  
• Molley Kamara - Park Center to Champlin Park
  
• De'Mari Larkins - Minneapolis South to Osseo 
• Lorenzo Levy - Concordia to Minnehaha
  
• Jaden Morgan - Two Rivers to De La Salle
  
• CJ O'Hara - Hopkins to Park Center
  
• Gavin Pierce - Hopkins to Prior Lake
  
• Chiang Ring - Minneapolis South to Park Center
  
• Jerome Williams - Minneapolis South to Minnehaha
• Max Wilson - Hopkins to Minneapolis North
  

10 Upperclassmen to Watch

• Taison Chatman - Totino-Grace
  
• Daniel Freitag - Bloomington Jefferson
• Tommy Humphries - Totino-Grace
  
• Jack Janicki - White Bear Lake
  
• Boden Kapke - Holy Family 
• Jackson McAndrew - Wayzata
  
• Jack Robison - Lakeville North
• Max Shikenjanski - Stillwater 
• Nasir Whitlock - De La Salle
  
• Nolan Winter - Lakeville North
  

10 Underclassmen to Watch

• Max Lorenson - Eden Prairie
  
• Daniel Molhoek - Edina
  
• Jayden Moore - Hopkins 
• Temi Omotoyinbo - Osseo
  
• Anthony Smith - Hopkins
• JJ Sullivan - Eden Prairie
  
• Cedric Tomes - East Ridge 
• Tyler Wagner - Totino-Grace
  
• Jalen Wilson - Benilde-St. Margaret's
• Brady Wooley - Orono
  

10 Local Teams to Watch

• Bloomington Jefferson
  
• De La Salle
  
• East Ridge
  
• Eastview
• Holy Family
  
• Lakeville North
  
• Park Center
  
• Totino-Grace
  
• Wayzata
• White Bear Lake

Active Streaks of 20 Games Or More In Conference Play

• Minneapolis North - 72 wins
• 42 home wins.  Last loss was 2/6/15 vs Minneapolis South
• 36 road wins.  Last loss was 2/5/16 at Minneapolis Washburn
• Minnehaha - 41 wins.  Last loss was 2/6/15 at St. Paul Academy
• 25 home wins.  Last home loss was 1/28/14 vs Blake in Tri-Metro play. 
  24-0 home record all-time in IMAC play.
• 20 road wins.  Last road loss was 2/6/15 at St. Paul Academy
  
• Minneapolis Roosevelt - 37 losses.  Last win was 2/1/19 vs Minneapolis Washburn  
• 21 road losses.  Last road win was 1/24/19 at Minneapolis South
  
• Nova Classical Academy - 33 losses
• 0-33 all-time in Skyline play
  
• Mounds Park Academy - 31 losses.  Last win was 2/9/18 at home.
• 69 road losses including their years in the Tri-Metro.  Last road conference win was at St. Paul Academy 2/1/2008
• Brooklyn Center - 26 losses.  Last win was 2/28/20 at St. Anthony
•  20 home losses.  Last win was 2/22/19 vs Columbia Heights
  
• Hill-Murray  - 22 losses.  Last win was 2/18/21 vs Two Rivers
  
• 41 road losses.  Last road win was 2/10/17 at South St. Paul.
• Anoka - 22 home losses.  Last win was 1/21/20 vs Rogers
• Note this doesn't count 2 other home games during 2020-21 season as the NWS only counted 1st meeting of the shortened COVID season as a conference game.
  

Section Winners

I gave thoughts on 14 conferences plus independents.  I'll match that here with predictions for the winners of 14 metro area sections.  That includes all the 6 local A,AA and AAA sections and all 8 AAAA sections.

4A: I see a rematch here between Legacy and New Life as the clear top 2 teams in the section.  They'll meet at Hamline just before Christmas as a nice preview of that game.  Give me New Life but either team is a sleeper to pull off a run at state.

4AA: Minnehaha still the favorite here in another down year in the section.

5AA: Holy Family with the addition of Kole Hanson to go with the huge front line of Boden Kapke and Collin Mulholland is the easy pick here.

3AAA: De La Salle a heavy favorite here with another year of Nasir Whitlock.
4AAA: The defending state champion Totino-Grace returns most of their lineup so they are the heavy favorite here.

6AAA: Orono is my pick here with pieces at all positions and experience.  Beware too of BSM with a ton of talented youth.

1AAAA:  Lakeville North still the class of this section.

2AAAA: Once again a section of death.  Minnetonka returns a ton of firepower from a year where they exceeded my expectations.

3AAAA: Daniel Freitag will once again carry Jefferson but it won't be enough.  Eastview reloads and wins the section again. 

4AAAA: East Ridge loses Kendall Blue but still has a very deep roster.  This will be a fun section to watch with Max Shikenjanski and Jack Janicki able to put a team on their back.

5AAAA:  Park Center reloaded their roster and already had a very strong JV squad coming up.  District rivals Osseo and Maple Grove are the other contenders here.

6AAAA: Wayzata's guard play and experience is still too much for this section.

7AAAA:  Andover will be a tough out here with their duo of Ben Kopetzki and Sammy Musungu.  Duluth East will still be a factor here with guard Jobe Juenemann.  However, the loss of Isaac Nyakundi on the front line tilts the scales away from the Greyhounds.

8AAAA: This section once again figures to be wide open as it was all over the place last season.  Moorhead made it thru with their big lineup.  They are still big with MN-Moorhead commit Adam Jenkins inside and lanky wing Dylan Zimmerman.  I'll take them to make the trip south to Target Center.

Season Thoughts

I don't recall a season where picks for the top teams have been so straight forward in all 4 classes.  Class AAAA should be very good at the top with Park Center, Wayzata, Lakeville North and East Ridge all being very experienced.  Eastview and the section 2 winner will be very battle tested as well.  In AAA, Totino-Grace, Mahtomedi, De La Salle and Orono make up a powerful local group of teams.  In AA, Holy Family loads up and adds Joe Burger to coach.  Plus the story of former NBA player Ricky Davis taking over for Larry McKenzie at Minneapolis North.  In single A, New Life and Legacy as noted above are 2 of the big fish locally in single A.  While Cherry is the class A favorite, remember New Life beat them down last year at state.  But that was a different time and roster.

The time is now.  Go #ShockTheCzar.

2022-23 Lake Conference Preview

This is the 14th preview in my 2022-2023 season preview series.  In this preview, I finish my look at my look at each of the metro area conferences with a look at the Lake Conference.  There's 1 more preview left to go over section predictions and what to watch.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Buffalo Bison (2021-22 season 16-12, 2-10 Conference, Tie 6th)
The Bison have to replace 6 of their top 7 scorers from a year ago.  Last year's leading scorer Antonio Bluiett (16.3 PPG) is the biggest lost.  Senior guard Nate Dahl (13.6 PPG) is the top returnee.  He'll lead a group of juniors that will be the base of the program this year and next.  That includes Brody Wishart, Grady Guida, Torii Johnson, Trenton Radloff and Kai Penney.

Eden Prairie Eagles (2021-22 season 19-12, 8-4 Conference, Tie 2nd)
Forward Chiddi Obiazor and his 18.5 PPG will be lost due to leaving early for Kansas State football.  Huge loss there for the Eagles.  Sophs Max Lorenson (5 PPG) and JJ Sullivan are both capable shooters to stretch the floor.  Luke Rapp and Joey Flom return to the guard rotation.  Jermell Taylor (4.2 PPG) provides front court experience.

Edina Hornets (2021-22 season 15-13, 4-8 Conference, 5th)
Former Armstrong head coach Jon Bryant takes over with Joe Burger leaving for the Holy Family job.  6 seniors including the inside out duo of Brady Helgren (19.7 PPG) and Gabe Jobe (17.8 PPG)  have graduated.  Junior guard Kole Hanson (14.8 PPG) had a breakout year with the injury to Sammy Presthus.  He is now at Holy Family.  Guard Peyton Himley and soph forward Daniel Molhoek are the top returning players at 3.8 PPG.  Vinnie Ingram will also see guard minutes.  Josiah Coleman transfers in from Maranatha where he averaged 8.8 PPG last season.  A group of juniors will be the depth behind that.

Hopkins Royals (2021-22 season 18-10, 8-4 Conference, Tie 2nd)
After a difficult year for the Royals, they'll have a retooled roster.  7 of the top 9 players need to be replaced.  3 major transfers out (CJ O'Hara 18.6 PPG, Max Wilson, Gavin Pierce) and 2 significant graduations (Elvis Nnaji 15 PPG) cause that.  The guard play will be strong with star frosh Jayden Moore (11.1 PPG) and soph Anthony Smith.  Vince Hillesheim returns as the main interior presence.  Soph Jaleel Donley figured to step into one of those open spots but he too has transferred.  He's now at Benilde-St. Margaret's.

Minnetonka Skippers (2021-22 season 18-9, 7-5 Conference, 4th)
The Skippers once again have a bevy of scoring at their disposal.  Junior Jordan Cain led the league with 20.1 PPG last season.  Ibo El-Amin added 19.2 PPG from another perimeter spot.  Junior PG Andy Stefonowicz holds it all together while adding 13.5 PPG.  Senior wings Alex Jones and Jalen Cain add more firepower along with junior Will Koeppen.  There's no size of note, but they're one of the few teams that can roll the ball out and just outscore most anybody they play.

St. Michael-Albertville Knights (2021-22 season 6-21, 2-10 Conference, Tie 6th)
Former UM-Crookston head coach and STMA assistant Jeff Oseth takes over the program.  He needs to replace 3 starters including both double figure scorers from last season.  Forward Colton Demarais (8.5 PPG) is the top returnee.  Soph wing Hudson Hochstedler (5.7 PPG) will also see a bigger role.  Landon Riebel, Logan Jans and Connor Luongvan also return to the rotation.  Logan Kunz should see interior minutes in the rotation.

Wayzata Trojans (2021-22 season 27-5, 11-1 Conference, 1st)
Wayzata has made the last 2 AAAA championship games.  They look to make another run for a gold ball this season.  Forward Carter Bjerke (17.1 PPG) is now at the U of St. Thomas but the rest of the roster is loaded.  Senior guards Hayden Tibbits (13.7 PPG), Spencer Hall, Myles Barnette, and Jake Schmitt make up a backcourt that has shooting, experience and ball handling.  Then you have junior Jackson McAndrew and his high major talent ready to step into Bjerke's stretch forward spot.  Isaiah Habte provides another option at that spot.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Wayzata 
2. Minnetonka   
   
3. Hopkins
4. Eden Prairie
5. Buffalo
   
6. Edina
7. St. Michael-Albertville

Conference Overview
Wayzata is the favorite here.  After moving Minnetonka too far down last season, I'm going to throw the pendulum the other way this season.  Hopkins still has Ken Novak Jr at the helm and Jayden Moore so I can't move them too far down.  Eden Prairie would have had something to say about all of that but they drop with Obiazor leaving early.  Then a drop to the last 3 squads who are all looking for the future.  Buffalo and Edina battle for the 5th spot.  I'll take Buffalo's experience and not having a new coach here.  STMA has some youth but the rest of the league is too tough.

Conference MVP: Hayden Tibbits - Wayzata

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Max Lorenson, JJ Sullivan, Hamze Yusef - Eden Prairie
• Daniel Molhoek - Edina
• Jayden Moore, Anthony Smith - Hopkins
• Duke Richardson - Minnetonka
• Hudson Hochstedler, Kyle Ross, Jeremiah Johnson - St. Michael-Albertville
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Minnetonka at Hopkins - Jan 20th
• Minnetonka at Wayzata - Jan 27th
• Wayzata at Minnetonka  - Feb 21st

 Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Wayzata vs Eastview - Dec 10th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
• Bloomington Jefferson at Hopkins - Dec 10th (Tipoff Classic)
• Minnetonka vs De La Salle - Dec 10th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
• Lakeville North at Wayzata - Dec 13th
• Eastview at Minnetonka - Jan 3rd
• East Ridge at Wayzata - Jan 31st
• De La Salle at Wayzata - Feb 28th
  

2022-23 South Suburban Conference Preview

This is the 13th preview in my 2022-23 Season Preview Series.  In this preview, we head south for a look at the South Suburban Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Apple Valley Eagles (2021-22 season 5-22, 2-16 Conference, Tie 9th)
Former De La Salle assistant David Collier is the new head coach.  The top 5 scorers have graduated.  PG Eli Ocharo (5.4 PPG) is the top returnee.  There is experience at the guard spots with Romelo Speights, Yaden Cunningham and youngsters Justin Cowan and Ja'khi Hollie.

Burnsville Blaze (2021-22 season 3-22, 2-16 Conference, Tie 9th)
Also a coaching change at Burnsville with assistant Erik Leafblad taking over the program.  Most of the roster returns.  He'll be able to build around the league's top returning scorer Khalif Bettis (19.8 PPG).  Henry Saykeo (12.6 PPG), Jeremy Sherlock and Jude De La Luz return at guard spots.  They also add guard JT Thornton from Lakeville North.  7 foot junior Henry Buchanan (6.7 PPG) returns as a rim protector inside.

Eagan Wildcats (2021-22 season 7-20, 3-15 Conference, 8th)
The Wildcats return their 3 top scorers, all on the perimeter.  The offense will run thru 4 year guard Emmanuel Schmitter (16.1 PPG).  Senior shooters Oscar Khazon and Austin Carruthers (10.8 PPG) surround him.  Khazon returns after missing much of last season due to injury.  Logan Schmitt needs to be replaced inside.  Jack Hansen figures to take most of those minutes.  George Anderson and Owen Ford will provide perimeter depth.

Eastview Lightning (2021-22 season 23-8, 13-5 Conference, 3rd)
Eastview has to replace 4 of their top 5 scorers including the top duo of F Jamal Ambrose and PG Kenji Scales.  They both averaged 15.8 PPG.  But this is Eastview and they just reload.  PG Dylan Omweno (9.8 PPG) and F Chet Kloss (6.5 PPG) lead the returning cast.  Kloss is the next in the long line of inside out Eastview forwards.  The supporting cast is loaded.  Mario and Myles Adams are athletic wings.  Elias Batala and Ruhan Jordan are solid guards.  Henry Eliason is a sniper.  Then there's another forward waiting to breakout in junior Jonathan Mekonnen.

Farmington Tigers (2021-22 season 21-8, 15-3 Conference, 2nd)
Farmington has to replace their top 3 scorers.  That includes star forward Kyle Hrncir and his 20.6 PPG.  PG Baiden Bean (8.6 PPG) leads the returning players.  Connor Todd is the only other rotation player coming back.  Juniors Tyler Beckwith and Brandon Hrncir figure to step in to the rotation.  Sophs Cole Wilcek, Jonah Ask and Nik Domier will compete for time too.

Lakeville North Panthers (2021-22 season 19-9, 12-6 Conference, 4th)
Coach John Oxton has the option to deploy a gigantic lineup with his 2-3 zone.  Wisconsin commit Nolan Winter (17.5 PPG) mans the middle defensively but his skill to step out on offense makes him a very dangerous offensive threat.  Jack Robison and Hudson Vaith are 2 versatile big wings who can score or distribute.  Matt Drake and Sam Nolan give them a set of more conventional guards should they go that way.  Jace Hernandez is a big body inside.  Will Kutzler and Erik Ryan are in the stretch forward mold that the Panthers have had for years.  A true point guard is about the only question this roster has.

Lakeville South Cougars (2021-22 season 17-11, 10-8 Conference, Tie 5th)
Lakeville South has to replace 3 of their top 4 scorers including 3 in double figures.  They'll be solid on the perimeter.  Guard Jackson Ressler (8.2 PPG) is the top returning scorer and anchor of this team.  Reece Volk joins him at a guard spot.  Junior wings Marley Baah-Yeboah and DaMarcus Burks will see much expanded roles.  Fellow Junior Ryan Johnson should also see time there after sitting out last year as a transfer.  Reece Gerl will man in the interior.

Prior Lake Lakers (2021-22 season 11-17, 7-11 Conference, 7th)
Forward Malcolm Jones (19.9 PPG) is now at Minnesota State.  That's the biggest loss with all 5 starters graduating.  Luke McCollough (4.1 PPG) is the top guy back.  Wing Gavin Pierce transfers in from Hopkins.  Joey Krouse and Luke Crosby will see guard minutes along with Vinny DeLuca.  Jamison Lien and Luka Mortenson are other rotation guys.

Rosemount Irish (2021-22 season 17-11, 10-8 Conference, Tie 5th)
The Irish have to replace Caleb Siwek (21.2 PPG).  He was a top 3 scorer in the league each of the last 3 seasons.  St. Cloud St commit Anish Ramlall (14.6 PPG) looks to step into that role this season after a breakout season last year and a great summer.  Rest of the guards are inexperienced.  Carter Theisen (6 PPG), Collin Archer, Gavin Bass and Kyson Leenherts will make up the front court.

Shakopee Sabers (2021-22 season 25-4, 16-2 Conference, 1st)
Shakopee has to replace their full starting 5 with a very productive 2022 class graduating.  That balanced group had 4 players in double figures.  The guard rotation will be the strength with juniors Jalen Langsy and Isaac Snell.  They both averaged 6.3 PPG last year.  Expect both to be double figure scorers this season.  Players like Tyler Boegeman will compete for the front court spots.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Lakeville North   
   
2. Eastview
   
3. Lakeville South
   
4. Rosemount 
5. Shakopee 
6. Eagan
   
7. Farmington
   
8. Burnsville 
   
9. Prior Lake
10. Apple Valley

Conference Overview:
Lakeville North with their experience is the favorite here.  Eastview reloads and is the easy pick for 2nd here.  Lakeville South has experience at all spots and a group of talented junior wings to put them in the top half.  After these 3, I see a group of mediocrity.  Rosemount has experienced bigs and a really good guard in Anish Ramlall.  That should be enough to overcome Shakopee's guard play.  Eagan and Farmington have nice guard play as well and can compete for the top half.  The bottom 3 are rebuilding with Prior Lake and Apple Valley losing a ton.  That means I give Burnsville the nod due to having their lineup back.

Conference MVP: Nolan Winter - Lakeville North

Underclassmen to watch:

• Justin Cowan, Ja'khi Hollie - Apple Valley
• Cole Wilcek, Nik Domier, Jonah Ask - Farmington
• Luke Loehlien - Prior Lake
• Kavari Floewrs - Rosemount
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Eastview at Lakeville North - Jan 10th
  
• Lakeville North at Eastview - Feb 14th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• East Ridge at Lakeville North - Dec 6th
• Eastview at Eden Prairie - Dec 8th
  
• Lakeville North vs Totino-Grace - Dec 10th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
• Eastview vs Wayzata - Dec 10th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
  
• Lakeville North at Wayzata - Dec 13th
• Lakeville North vs Park Center - Dec 17th (Big Stage Classic at Osseo)
• Eastview at Osseo - Dec 17th (Big Stage Classic) 
• Eastview at East Ridge - Dec 28th (East Ridge Holiday Tourney)
• Eastview vs Cretin-Derham Hall - Dec 29th (East Ridge Holiday Tourney)
• Eastview at Minnetonka - Jan 3rd
  
• Lakeville North vs Eden Prairie - Jan 14th - (Hall of Fame Classic at ARCC)
  

2022-23 Suburban East Conference Preview

This is the 12th preview in my 2022-2023 season preview series.  In this preview, I continue my look at the local big schools with a look at the Suburban East Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they were generated, click here.

Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (2021-22 season 21-11, 12-6 Conference, 3rd)
Coach Jerry Kline has to replace 4 of his top 5 scorers.  That includes star PG Tre Holloman (19.7 PPG) and wing Donavhan Cain (18.6 PPG).  Guards Adam Tauer and Miles Bollinger return along with forward Sam Koopmeiners to provide experience.  Guard Luke Jacobsen transfers in from Andover along with a couple of talented Minneapolis South youngsters.  Anthony Knight and Jake Little are other rotation options.

East Ridge Raptors (2021-22 season 23-6, 16-2 Conference, 1st)
The Raptors lose star guard Kendall Blue (19.6 PPG) but return a talented group behind that.  U of Mary commit Alex Mattes (15.1 PPG), Peter Koland, Parker Wellman and frosh Cedric Tomes make up the backcourt.  Junior forwards Charlie Bern and Charlie Theis are sneaky athletic with the ability to play in or out.  Inside you have 2 big body options in juniors Brayden Carlson and St. Paul Johnson transfer Daejohn Thomas.

Forest Lake Rangers (2021-22 season 6-22, 3-15 Conference, 10th)
Shooter Nick Bartlett and his 18.1 PPG need to be replaced.  Junior forward Owen Waldoch (19.4 PPG) is poised for another big season.  Fellow juniors Nolan Dumonceaux (6.3 PPG) and Reid Olson return to the starting lineup as well.  Guards Weston Hoyt and frosh DJ Westman  saw rotation time last season.  Noah Lukkason and Steve Babcock are forward options.

Irondale Knights (2021-22 season 15-12, 9-9 Conference, 5th)
Irondale was the top turnaround story of last season going from 1 win in the pandemic sesaon to 15 wins last season.  Now they need to replace all 5 starters including 3 double figure scorers.  Dane Dedominces (8.3 PPG), Cooper O'Brien and Max Herlofsky are the top returners.  Tyler Smith, Thomas Westbrook and Jake Dedominces look to jump into guard spots of the rotation.  Mekhi Edwards returns from CDH and will be a front line option.

Mounds View Mustangs (2021-22 season 16-12, 8-8 Conference, Tie 6th)
Mounds View needs to replace their guard duo of Kobe Kirk and Dylan Wheeler.  They combined for 33.4 PPG last season.  Guard Colby Deluce (10.3 PPG) and Jacob Becher lead the returning cast.  Junior forwards Eli Roe and Joey Fretheim should see significant roles.

Park Wolfpack (2021-22 season 20-9, 13-5 Conference, 2nd)
A new era begins in Cottage Grove with 8 seniors, all 5 starters and coach Mike Weah needing to be replaced.  The biggest loss is center Pharrell Payne and his nightly double-double that is now at Minnesota.  Senior wing OT Omot (7.9 PPG) and PG David Ola-Kazeem are 2 notable players coming back.  Tayvion Stewart provides another guard option.  Henry Schluetter and Erik Lind will see minutes on the front line.

Roseville Raiders (2021-22 season 6-21, 4-14 Conference, 9th)
The Raiders have to replace 3 of their top 4 scorers including wing Keyon Broussard (13.8 PPG).  Forward Evan Fischer (10.2 PPG) will be this year's go-to guy.  Khalid Abdi also returns on the front line.  Owen Letts is a stretch 4 option in that group too.  Juniors Ataa Mensah, William DeVries and Nate Hatteberg are guard options along with senior Isaac Ivy.

Stillwater Ponies (2021-22 season 13-14, 7-11 Conference, 8th)
Senior point guard Max Shikenjanski (28.3 PPG) returns after leading the conference in scoring last season.  Guard Tanner Thomson (13.6 PPG) returns as another perimeter scoring option.  Juniors Joe Hoheisel and Brett Hilde will provide depth there.  Junior forward Lake DeJongh transfers in after averaging 8.7 PPG at Somerset, WI last season.  He'll team up with Tyler Wiese on the interior.

White Bear Lake Bears (2021-22 season 15-13, 10-8 Conference, 4th)
The Bears return their entire starting lineup.  That's led by the inside out duo of Jack Janicki (Wisconsin walk-on) and Wyatt Hawks.  Janicki was 2nd in league scoring with 24.2 PPG on the wing.  Hawks came out of nowhere to average 12.2 PPG and will play his college ball at St. Cloud State.  He's the interior scorer but can step out as well.  Jack Misgen (9 PPG) is the 3rd scoring option.  Jeremy Kolb, Jack Setterlund and Brandon Ehlers all return to the perimeter rotation.  Zach Nelson should see the backup minutes behind Hawks up front.   

Woodbury Royals (2021-22 season 11-16, 8-10 Conference, Tie 6th)
Coach Kent Getzlaff needs to replace his leading scorer Blake Rohrer (17.4 PPG).  Guard Cayden Narum (10 PPG) and forward Carter Bolin return to the starting lineup. 

Predicted Order of Finish

1. East Ridge     
   
2. White Bear Lake 
   
3. Cretin-Derham Hall   
   
4. Stillwater 
   
5. Mounds View
   
6. Woodbury   
7. Forest Lake   
   
8. Irondale  
   
9. Park
10. Roseville

Conference Overview:
East Ridge sticks out as the clear favorite here.  White Bear Lake has everybody back and beat the Raptors at WBL last season.  I picked them as my under the radar team of the season.  CDH will be talented but don't be shocked if it takes them time to put it together as they integrate new pieces.  Stillwater has plenty to talk about with Max Shikenjanski so I'll take them in the top half.  Their 2 games vs White Bear Lake are appointment viewing.  Mounds View will battle them for that spot with solid wing play.  Woodbury and Forest Lake are in the next tier.  Owen Waldoch could move Forest Lake up.  Irondale and Park have to replace just about everything.  Roseville has to replace their top player from last season and will try to stay out of the cellar.

Conference MVP: Jack Janicki - White Bear Lake

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Jason Johnson, Monteff Dixon- Cretin-Derham Hall
  
• Cedric Tomes - East Ridge 
• DJ Westman - Forest Lake
• Jake Dedominces - Irondale
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Cretin-Derham Hall at East Ridge- Dec 13th
• White Bear Lake at Stillwater - Dec 16th
  
• East Ridge at White Bear Lake - Jan 3rd
  
• East Ridge at Cretin-Derham Hall - Jan 27th
• Stillwater at White Bear Lake - Feb 2nd
• White Bear Lake at East Ridge - Feb 10th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• East Ridge at Lakeville North - Dec 6th
  
• East Ridge vs Osseo - Dec 10th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
  
• Cretin-Derham Hall vs Maple Grove - Dec 10th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
• Stillwater vs De La Salle - Dec 17th (Big Stage Classic at Osseo)
• Eden Prairie at East Ridge - Dec 22nd
  
• Eastview at East Ridge - Dec 28th (East Ridge Holiday Tourney)
  
• East Ridge at Wayzata - Jan 31st
• White Bear Lake at Wayzata - Feb 23rd
  

2022-23 NW Suburban Conference Preview

This is the 11th preview in my 2022-2023 season preview series.  Its the 3rd and final week of the preview series and that means its time for the big schools.  Most of the teams this week will be AAAA schools.  In this preview, a look at the Northwest Suburban Conference. For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Andover Huskies (2021-22 season 21-11, 13-6 Conference, Tie 1st North)
The Huskies look to once again represent section 7AAAA at state.  3 of the top 4 scorers return including the league's leading scorer Sam Musungu (21.6 PPG) and Concordia-St. Paul commit Ben Kopetzki (17 PPG) at guard spots.  Landyn Nelson returns as well as a nice 3rd option.  They do lose a ton of depth though.  6th man Luke Jacobson is now at Cretin-Derham Hall and their tallest 2 guys inside graduated.  Tate Johnson and Von Strenge will look to fill those role spots.

Anoka Tornadoes (2021-22 season 5-21, 2-17 Conference, 7th North)
The Tornadoes lose 3 of their 4 top scorers including guard Jay Nyamari (18.6 PPG).  Junior forward AJ Howze (12.6 PPG) leads the returning cast.  Reagan Reader joins him up front as the big guy inside.  Soph guards Peyton Podany and Trey Borchers will have important roles.  Senior Donald Prah will be the most experienced guard.

Blaine Bengals (2021-22 season 7-20, 4-15 Conference, Tie 5th North)
Blaine needs to replace 4 starters and 7 seniors from last season including AJ Kaul up front.  Leading scorer Ethan Pettis (12.8 PPG) returns at the shooting guard spot.  Guard Ryan Bohlman (7.9 PPG) and forward Zach Schusted (7.5 PPG) will move up into the starting lineup after being backups last season.  Lots of inexperience after that.  Juniors Jordan Lyon and Alvin Payne are youngsters who will contend for those other spots.

Centennial Cougars (2021-22 season 7-20, 4-15 Conference, Tie 5th North)
Look for a youth movement at Centennial with 5 of the top 6 scorers graduating.  Juniors Ty Burgoon (8.5 PPG) and Will Quick (4.1 PPG) are the top returning scorers.  Then there's soph Jack D'Agostino right behind them.  Henry Pirner will provide the senior experience.  Underclassmen from last year's JV such as Timmy Ball will make up most of the remaining minutes.

Champlin Park Rebels (2021-22 season 5-21, 5-14 Conference, 4th North)
The Rebels have to replace most of their rotation.  2 double figure scorers and 8 seniors including Ayo Taki (15.4 PPG) have graudation . Junior guards Luke Graff (10.6 PPG) and Amory Peterson (3.4 PPG) are the top returnees.  They'll get a boost from Park Center transfer Molley Kamara who should step right into the main interior spot.  Micaiah Strong and Joesph Cummings appear to be guard options in the rotation.

Coon Rapids Cardinals (2021-22 season 19-10, 10-9 Conference, 3rd North)
Coach Mike Ogorek has to replace 4 of his 5 double figure scorers from last season.  That adds up to over 52 PPG.  Junior Khi-Hohnn Cummings-Coleman and his 15.7 PPG is the lead guy coming back.  Jackson Hettwer and Griffin Thom are 2 experienced returnees in the rotation.  Soph guard Marcus Bailey should see plenty of rotation time as well.

Elk River Elks (2021-22 season 14-13, 9-10 Conference, 4th West)
Guard Cade Osterman (13.8 PPG) is the lone starter returning.  He'll be the focus of the offense.  Forward Carson Haack also returns after averaging double figures last year at 10.7 PPG.  Jack Lachmiller is the only player returning to the rotation.  The loss of PG Parker Behne (18.8 PPG) and PF Caleb Gillequist (8.3 PPG) leave 2 major holes that will be difficult to replace.

Maple Grove Crimson (2021-22 season 14-13, 13-6 Conference, Tie 1st North)
A pair of double figure scorers and 5 of the top 7 overall scorers need to be replaced.  But the duo that is back is formidable.  Center Lincoln Palbicki  (9.2 PPG) and PG Raoul Vaidya (8.1 PPG) are both poised to jump into double figures this season.  Senior wings Will Bauman and Jacob Anderson also return to the rotation.  Then you add junior sniper Henry Stang to the mix.  Not to mention a talented JV squad from last year to provide plenty of depth.

Osseo Orioles (2021-22 season 22-7, 16-3 Conference, 3rd West)
The Orioles have to replace a deep and experienced senior class that included 4 players who averaged 9 PPG or more.  Junior forward Isaiah Johnson is now at Totino-Grace.  UMD commit Trey Smith (6.8 PPG) returns at a forward spot as the top returning scorer.  The rest of the interior is a question mark.  Minneapolis South will supply rotation replacements with PG De'Mari Larkins and soph wing Temo Omotoyinbo transferring in.  Junior guards Ty Swanson and Timmy Denedo will step right in as solid options.

Park Center Pirates (2021-22 season 31-1, 18-1 Conference, 1st West)
The AAAA state champs have to replace all 5 starters and are still a major threat to repeat.  Chiang Ring (Minneapolis South) and CJ O'Hara (Hopkins) join Cash Chavis as players who transferred in.  Chavis came over late last season from De La Salle.  Junior wing Jackson Fowlkes is a sleeper who would be a major breakout candidate anywhere else except this loaded roster.  JJ Ware, Kaden Cook and Joe Burgess are all rotation guys with Syoka Siko providing depth.

Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons (2021-22 season 13-15, 8-11 Conference, 5th West)
The Falcons have to replace leading scorer Peyton Newbern (15.5 PPG), PG Jamez Garner and C Payton Mogire.  Newbern may be missed just as much for his defense, particularly drawing charges.  Plenty left to work with on the roster.  Seniors Owen Skram (9.2 PPG) and Drew Kuempel return to the lineup.  The junior class is deep with Seth Newburn (9.9 PPG) and guard Gresyn Rennie plus forwards Fitz Freeman and Langden College.  Soph guard Desmond Ware will see a ton of time as well.

Rogers Royals (2021-22 season 10-17, 7-12 Conference, Tie 6th West)
Rogers has to replace all 5 starters including guard Peyton Belka (17.3 PPG) and 3 other double figure scorers.   Junior guard Blake Dalluge (5.3 PPG) is the top returnee.  Fellow junior Jaxson Fuller will join him in the backcourt.  Michael Watson and Wyatt Gilmore will be the main options inside.

Spring Lake Park Panthers (2021-22 season 11-17, 7-12 Conference, Tie 6th West)
Assistant Oliver Major takes over for long time coach Grant Guzy who retired.  Payton Thomsen and Logan Kinsey each averaged over 19 PPG to finish 2nd and 3rd in league scoring.  They've graduated leaving very little experience scoring behind.  Senior center Beau Johnson (4.9 PPG) is the top returning scorer.  Fellow seniors Freddie Anthony and Mikey Say figure to pick up some of that scoring slack on the wings. 

Totino-Grace Eagles (2020-21 season 26-6, 17-2 Conference, 2nd West)
The AAA state champs lose a couple of significant pieces but still are a heavy favorite to repeat.  Ohio St commit Taison Chatman (13.5 PPG) runs the show.  Furman commit Tommy Humphries (10.4 PPG) and forward Patrick Bath (12.8 PPG) also return to the starting lineup.  Bath will take on more inside responsibility with Ahjany Lee now at the U of St. Thomas.  Osseo transfer Isaiah Johnson will be another valuable front court piece.  Junior guard Zy'lerre Stewart (4.5 PPG) is another important piece that allows the Eagles to give Chatman a breather from ball handling or defensive duties.  Soph Tyler Wagner saw minutes last season.  He looks to see more time this season.

Predicted Order of Finish

North Division

1. Andover 
   
2. Maple Grove
   
3. Coon Rapids 
   
4. Champlin Park  
   
5. Blaine
6. Anoka 
7. Centennial

West Division

1. Totino-Grace 
   
2. Park Center
3. Osseo 
4. Robbinsdale Armstrong  
   
5. Elk River
   
6. Spring Lake Park 
7. Rogers

Conference Overview:
The NW Suburban in boys hoops continues to make the the Big Ten football divisions look balanced.  Last year the West division had a 40-9 record versus the North division in the crossover games.  In the weaker north division I see Andover and Maple Grove neck and neck for that title. Then it drops off as everybody else in the division has major things to replace.  Coon Rapids has the most stability left so I'll take them here.  Blaine and Champlin Park battle for the next 2 spots, but Kamara coming in gives Champlin Park the edge.  Anoka and Centennial are rebuilding with youth.  I think Anoka is a year ahead in that process so I'll take them here.

Then in the west you have the usual blood bath.  Flip a coin for the epic battle between TG and PC and be happy with the result. Their 2 head to head meetings are appointment viewing.  Osseo is the clear next in line followed by Armstrong.  Then it drops down to Elk River who has losses but still has a couple pieces.  Spring Lake Park plugs in enough from last year's JV to stay ahead of an inexperienced Rogers team.

Conference MVP: Taison Chatman - Totino-Grace

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Peyton Podany, Trey Borchers - Anoka
• Jack D'Agostino, Jacob Hosfield, Jackson Driessen - Centennial
• Marcus Bailey, Jaxon Young - Coon Rapids
• Keegan Harney - Maple Grove
  
• Temi Omotoyinbo - Osseo
  
• Desmond Ware - Robbinsdale Armstrong
• Tyler Wagner, Chase Watley, Tian Chatman, Dothan Ijadimbola - Totino-Grace
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Totino-Grace at Maple Grove - Jan 6th
  
• Totino-Grace at Park Center - Jan 12th
  
• Park Center at Totino-Grace - Feb 9th
• Park Center at Andover - Feb 21st
  
• Totino-Grace at Andover - Mar 3rd
• Park Center at Maple Grove - Mar 3rd
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Park Center at De La Salle - Dec 8th
  
• Totino-Grace vs Lakeville North - Dec 10th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
• Park Center vs Lakeville North - Dec 17th (Big Stage Classic at Osseo) 
• Holy Family at Park Center - Dec 21st
  

2022-23 Metro West Conference Preview

This is the 10th preview in my 2022-2023 season preview series.  Its now time for the big schools with the mostly class AAAA leagues are now on the list of previews.  In this preview, a look at the league nobody wanted to win last year, the Metro West Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Benilde St. Margaret's Red Knights (2021-22 season 18-10, 13-5 Conference, 2nd)
The Red Knights have to replace 4 of their top 5 scorers.  They'll reload from a loaded JV roster and with soph star Jalen Wilson (12.5 PPG).  Juniors Jayden Daisy and Xavier Lumpkin will be the veterans of the group.  Soph Abu Keita saw major rotation minutes last season on the front line as an active forward.  Soph Jaleel Donley transfers in from Hopkins.  He was a top varsity guy for Bloomington Kennedy as an 8th grader.  They'll be young but no questions on the talent level.

Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars (2021-22 season 20-7, 14-4 Conference, 1st)
Coach Jeff Evens can build around the state's top junior Daniel Freitag.  The returning conference MVP averaged 26.7 PPG last season.  He also had plenty of clutch moments leading the Jags to the league title.  They also nicely incorporated Freitag in the post into their offense.  Senior guard Blake Mamalakis-Linderman will provide shooting.  Lefties Gavin Luick and soph Thomas Rowland can also knock down shots.  Anthony Thorman provides the size and banging inside. 

Chanhassen Storm (2021-22 season 15-12, 12-6 Conference, tie 3rd)
Junior PG Max Woods (14.6 PPG) once again returns as the leading scorer.  Braden Barger (9.2 PPG) is the other returning starter as a wing. Beyond that, they'll have to find offense.  Grant Muffenbier will be in the rotation as well.  A very solid and balanced JV squad will help supplement the rotation.

Chaska Hawks (2021-22 season 10-17, 9-9 Conference, Tie 6th)
Nick Hayes takes over the program after the retirement of longtime coach Dana Kallman. The top 3 scorers including their big front line of Brady Nicholson (23.2 PPG) and Jakobe Lyles (7.9 PPG) need to be replaced.  Seniors Maddox Foss (7.7 PPG) and forward Dawson Reif (7.4 PPG) are the top returnees.  Seniors Max Rain and Joey Born will be wing options.  Soph Trey Lenzen one of the forward options.

New Prague Trojans (2021-22 season 4-23, 3-15 Conference, tie 9th)
Shooter Ethan Chromy (13.2 PPG) and forward Jaxon Short (12.6 PPG) need to be replaced along with guard Matt Kudrie.  The perimeter spots will be the strength.  PG Noah Washa (6.3 PPG) and wing Jacob Hemann (6.7 PPG) both return to the rotation.  Nick Giesen will pick up more interior minutes.

Orono Spartans (2021-22 season 21-8, 12-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Coach Barry Wohler has to replace a pair of shooters in Sebastian Loder (15.7 PPG) and Jake Farrell (11.1 PPG).  He still has plenty to work with.  Guard Isaiah Hagen (18.7 PPG) was the team scoring leader and can play on or off the ball.  Kyle Kallenbach (10.1 PPG) and Grant Gunderson are experienced guards.  Zach Close and Riley Nelson return as front line options.  Soph Brady Wooley could also see time as a stretch forward.

St. Louis Park Orioles (2021-22 season 10-17, 4-14 Conference, 8th)
Guard Stefano Giovannelli (11.3 PPG) is the only 1 of 4 double figure scorers from last year that is coming back.  Junior Keegan Hartford will have the point guard duties.  Antonio Speed will be the top front line option.  Very little else coming back to the rotation.

Waconia Wildcats (2021-22 season 12-15, 9-9 Conference, tie 6th)
The Wildcats need to replace 4 starters including 3 of their top 4 scorers.  They do return a strong wing duo in Ty Miller (11.5 PPG) and Jackson Hayes (4.6 PPG).  Freshman Will Kirsch should run the point.  He's started at Holy Family last season.  Matt Hedtke will see guard minutes.  Chris Fulford is a front court option.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Orono
   
2. Bloomington Jefferson 
   
3. Benilde-St. Margaret's  
   
4. Chanhassen   
   
5. Waconia
6. Chaska 
   
7. St. Louis Park
   
8. New Prague

Conference Overview
I had long predicted more change had to happen with the Metro West and sure enough it happens this season.  Robbinsdale Cooper and Bloomington Kennedy are both off to the Tri-Metro.  That brings the league size down a perfect 8 teams.  I see 2 top groups with a drop off to the remaining 3.  I like Orono's experience and depth to win i.  Jefferson will be right there with Freitag and the shooters around him.  Benilde-St. Margaret's youth keeps them third.  Waconia and Chanhassen will battle for the last spot in the top half as a dangerous second tier.  Chaska is rebuilding but has the most coming back so I default them to sixth.  St. Louis Park and New Prague are rebuilding.
 
Conference MVP: Daniel Freitag - Bloomington Jefferson

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Jalen Wilson, Abu Keita, Jaleel Donley, Christian Wiggins - Benilde-St. Margaret's
• Thomas Rowland - Bloomington Jefferson 
• Trey Lenzen - Chaska
• Brady Wooley - Orono
• Will Kirsch - Waconia
  

Conference Games to Watch

• Orono at Bloomington Jefferson - Jan 27th
• Orono at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Jan 30th
• Bloomington Jefferson at Orono - Feb 21st
• Bloomington Jefferson at Benilde-St. Margaret's - Feb 24th
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Hopkins at Orono - Dec 2nd
• Bloomington Jefferson vs TBD - Dec 10th (Tipoff Classic at Hopkins)
  
• Benilde-St. Margaret's at De La Salle - Dec 20th